Introduction
If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, look no further than this delicious tater tot casserole. Packed with flavorful ingredients such as lean ground beef, colorful vegetables, creamy soup, and a crispy topping of tater tots, this recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s simple to prepare and can be on the table in under an hour, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound lean ground beef
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen corn
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
½ cup whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 package (16 ounces) frozen tater tots
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
This tater tot casserole combines the richness of ground beef with colorful veggies and creamy soup, all topped with golden tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. Give it a try for your next meal—it’s comforting and satisfying!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced red bell pepper, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Mix in Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the frozen corn, cream of mushroom soup, and whole milk. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the beef mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
Step 6: Arrange Tater Tots
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese.
Step 7: Bake Initial Time
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
Step 8: Add More Cheese
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
Step 9: Bake Again
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Ground Beef
For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Note 2: Vegetables
Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, for extra flavor and nutrition.
Note 3: Cheese Variations
Experiment with different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a unique taste.
Note 4: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Note 5: Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking technique that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. In this recipe, sauté the ground beef, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender.
Mixing
Mixing combines ingredients to create a unified mixture. In this recipe, mixing occurs when you combine the cooked beef and vegetables with frozen corn, cream of mushroom soup, and milk to create a well-blended filling for the casserole.
Baking
Baking involves cooking food by surrounding it with dry heat, typically in an oven. This recipe requires baking the casserole at 375°F (190°C) to cook the layers and melt the cheese.
Layering
Layering is arranging different ingredients on top of each other, which ensures that flavors blend during cooking. In this casserole, the layers include the beef mixture, cheese, and tater tots.
Resting
Resting allows cooked food to set briefly before serving, enhancing its texture and flavor. This casserole should rest for a few minutes after being taken out of the oven to let it cool slightly.
FAQ
Can I substitute ground beef with another type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute if you prefer.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute with cream of chicken soup, or make a homemade mushroom sauce using sautéed mushrooms and heavy cream.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
To make this dish dairy-free, use a dairy-free cheese and substitute whole milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or coconut milk.
Can I add other vegetables to the mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as zucchini, kale, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden. If using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
This comforting casserole brings together the hearty flavors of seasoned ground beef, colorful vegetables, and gooey melted cheese, all topped with crispy tater tots. It’s a satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, and it’s simple to make with minimal prep and cooking time.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Taco Tater Tot Casserole
Swap the cream of mushroom soup for taco sauce, and add taco seasoning to the beef mixture. Top with diced tomatoes and a mix of cheese for a zesty twist.
Vegetarian Tater Tot Bake
Replace the ground beef with a mix of black beans and lentils. Add spinach, diced tomatoes, and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Use shredded cooked chicken tossed in buffalo sauce instead of ground beef. Add crumbled blue cheese and diced celery for an extra kick.
Breakfast Tater Tot Casserole
Use breakfast sausage instead of ground beef, mix in scrambled eggs, and add diced potatoes for a delicious breakfast twist.
Mediterranean Tater Tot Bake
Incorporate olives, feta cheese, and spinach into the beef mixture for a Mediterranean flair, and consider swapping cheddar for mozzarella cheese.
